Payten Lynn Johnson, age 18, went to be with her Lord on Friday, March 27, 2026. She will be remembered by her parents James and Elizabeth Johnson; sister, Malarie Johnson; grandparents Roderick and Jan Johnson, Doug and Lori Nieuwkoop, and Rick and Rhonda Mayhew; along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Payten will forever be known for having the most beautiful smiles that would light up the whole entire room. She loved music, soaking in the sunshine, and going on long walks with her parents or nurses. Her favorite places to be were with her family and where everyone was talking so she could listen. She never got tired of watching her favorite Disney movies like, "Beauty and the Beast," or playing tricks on her parents and sister. Payten was the biggest entertainer in the room and could make the worst day become the best day ever without needing to speak, her smile and laugh being enough. Above all, Payten’s biggest accomplishments were being the strongest and happiest person on the face on the earth despite all of her disabilities, along with being the best sister and daughter anyone could ask for.
A private family celebration of Payten’s life will commence on a date and time to be determined. In honor of Payten and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the Helen DeVos Children's Hospital, or any other organization supporting children with special needs. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.
